Book Reviews, Audiobooks, and Must-See TV: My Husband, The Croaking Machine, The Alchemist, and The Durrells in Corfu — Sunday Guides Winter 2026 by The Paris House

My Husband by Maud Ventura; The Croaking Machine by Michele Rosenthal; Audiobook Recommendation: The Alchemist; Books That Inspire Travel; What We're Watching: The Durrells; Perfect Picks for Your Next Book Club

 
Michele Rosenthal reading The Continental Affair on a balcony in Paris France
 

Paris House Book Review

 
A review of the book entitled My Husband by Maud Ventura
 

My Husband by Maud Ventura

From the first page to the last sentence, My Husband is a captivating read. Its compelling narrative and well-crafted prose make it a true page-turner.

It’s a story where love and obsession intersect, creating a false reality and leaving us readers in a state of shock. This leaves you guessing until the last sentence, which makes you think way beyond after the book is closed.

If you’re not afraid to be a little disturbed, then this is the book for you. This book comes highly recommended by the Northshire bookstore staff selections in Manchester, Vermont, and they were spot on. It is indeed a page turner.

 
About the childrens book The Croaking Machine by Michele Rosenthal
 

The Croaking Machine by Michele Rosenthal

The Croaking Machine by Michele Rosenthal is a very excited little toad who croaks very, very loudly when he gets excited about something. This doesn't always go over well with his friends and classmates - especially when his loud croaking gets the class in trouble. Through all his troubles, his best friend Stella is always there for him.

This is a story about being different than everyone else - and accepting the differences of others. It shows that sometimes our unique traits and qualities can save the day and make us true heroes in the end.

 
 

The Book Club Dinner Party

 
A review of the novel The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho
 

The Alchemist by Paulo Coelho

Before listening to this in audio format, we highly recommend reading the book first because it highlights its beautiful prose and encourages you to engage deeply; it is glorious!

"The Alchemist is a novel by Paulo Coelho about an Andalusian shepherd boy named Santiago who journeys from Spain to the Egyptian desert in search of treasure.

Along the way, he learns to listen to his heart, read omens, and follow his dreams, discovering that the true treasure is the wisdom and personal growth he finds on his quest. This inspiring story emphasizes that pursuing your destiny can lead to profound self-discovery and fulfillment.” Adapted from Goodreads

 
A review of the PBS TV series The Durrells in Corfu
 

Binge Watch

PBS has wonderful shows that are a bit more mainstream. We highly recommend The Durells if you have not already watched it. The series has gorgeous settings overlooking the Ionian Sea, which transported us back to Corfu, one of our favorite islands in Greece. It’s lovely.

Additional Reading

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